Yoga Etiquette

Arrive Early

Getting to class about 10 minutes early can help you settle in and align your attitude with the purpose of the class. While you're waiting you can practice a pose, do a few stretches, or just sit or lie quietly, breathe, and get centered.

Turn Off Electronics

Turn off your phones and pagers before class. Exit the world of constant communication which we all love and step into your mat fully liberated. Remember that others have done the same and interrupting the yoga zone with a ringtoneis rather unforgiving, regardless of the calm reaction you may receive.

Go Easy on Perfume and Cologne

This does not mean a total ban on all scents. It just means going easy on perfumes and colognes. You breathe heavy and deep breaths in yoga and are in proximity of others. These lovely smells, which are purely subjective, will come across very strongly during the session. Observe good general hygiene but save the perfume for your post-yoga after-shower celebration!

Observe Silence During Savasana

This is one where you will know and love when you have made friends with your yoga but it will take time. Until then, consider it a dedication to the finish of practice. Practice silence during savasana and however tempted you may be to leave and skip out, resist it. This is where your practice assimilates and the results are infused with a repose so well-deserving and so necessary. This last pose seals your practice with good omen and prepares you for the next phase. If you must (really must!) leave before the end, leave before people settle into savasana and be as quiet as a church mouse!

Minimize Conversation

For the most part idle conversation with your friend of mat neighbour is considered inappropriate. However this doesn't mean total silence on the studio. Often there will be conversation with the teacher regarding the material being presented in class and likely there will be laughter! However, each instructor is different and has their own style so take your ques from your teacher.

Tidy Your Area and Return Props

If you borrowed a mat from the studio, wipe it down. At the beginning of class gather the props you will need (Typically you will know what props are needed for the class by looking at the teachers mat) and return them at the end of class. Don't forget to take all your stuff with you.